An Immobilising Prejudice

When we consider how we treat the disabled, do we truly wish to be treated in the same manner? If the answer isn't an immediate, resounding yes’, then there is an issue long overdue for a solution

- Koyyi Chin

Our bodies serve as a reminder: regardless of our choices, we could all become disabled as we age and our bodily functions deteriorate. Picture yourself with reduced mobility, dependent on assistance. Now, imagine visiting a mall with limited disabled parking spots, occupied by the cars of able-bodied individuals who ignore the fines.

This scenario highlights just a fraction of the challenges faced by the disabled community. They endure not only infrastructural issues but also systemic ableism, leading to ostracism, stigma, and persecution.

In the spirit of inclusivity and diversity, as our nation celebrates its 66th year of independence, Tatler sits down with Senator Ras Adiba Radzi. A former veteran news presenter, record-breaking Paralympian, chairman of the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama), and influential voice in Parliament, Ras Adiba champions the rights of disabled individuals and is a paraplegic herself. During our conversation, she sheds light on the challenges faced by persons with disabilities (PWDs), also known in Malaysia as orang kurang upaya (OKUs), and what we need to create a more inclusive society.

A SYSTEM THAT DISABLES

The first and largest issue to address is that instead of treating the disabled as the problem, it is the system that needs fixing, according to Ras Adiba.

“It isn’t so much the disability that hinders our quality of life as persons with disabilities, but society’s perception of us, which is shaped by the systems we grew up with. It isn’t just the way our environments are designed, but also how people react to PWDs that obstructs any kind of positive development for disabled communities,” says Ras Adiba.